To steer this riding season in the right direction, youll want to make sure your motorcycleand your motorcycle insurance policyare in good working order before hitting the open road.

While you should always check your owners manual for specific guidelines, here are some general tips for getting ready:

1. Change the oil and filter. Many manufacturers recommend changing the oil and filter before storing a bike for any extended period of time and again when you bring it back out for riding season. Be sure to first start up the motor-cycle to warm the engine and then shut it off before changing the oil and filter.

2. Check the belt or chain. Make sure it is set to the manufacturers recommended tension. And if you have a chain, lubricate it.

3. Check nuts and bolts. Start off the riding season with a solid bike. Make sure everything is tight. A well-maintained motorcycle not only assures a fun time, it can save you money by avoiding accidents, which helps to keep your insurance rates down, says Rick Stern, motorcycle product manager, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies.

4. Inspect tires. Look for any damage and also make sure each tire is inflated to the correct pres-sure. Youve only got two tires, so for maximum stability it is very important to avoid underinflation as well as overinflation.

5. Look for fluid leaks. The easiest way to check for this is to look at the floor under the motor-cycle. Leaking oil or brake, radiator or clutch fluid can cause their own special problems. For example, being low on brake fluid could make it hard to stop your motor-cycle. You dont want to find that out after youre already on the road.

7. Brush up on your riding skills. Find a safe place to practice riding skills such as fast stops, figure eights, U-turns, etc., so youre ready for the season. Youll be glad you did.

8. Update your policy. Per-haps one of the most important things you can do at the start of the season is review your insurance coverage to be certain you, and your bike, are covered. Talk to your local independent insurance agent.

Independent agents represent many companies and they can help you to understand the cover-ages you need. An independent agent can also help you find the combination of price and service thats right for you.